The Department of Performing Arts, Film, Media and Economic Studies (PAFMES) today launched the Creative Sector Forecast Report 2020 which seeks to provide guidance and insights to creatives on how the Creative sector will look like post Covid19. The report, authored by the Department Chair, Mr. Ngobia Benson, and featuring submissions from faculty members Sarah Masese and Leonard Wanyama, features insights from 25 thought leaders in the creative sector, who share their opinions, insight and interventions in place to cushion artistes during this period.
The report also shares a 9-point recommendation section on the way forward for the sector. Respondents include Michael Pundo, the CEO Kenya Cultural Centre, Nancy Matimu, the MD Multichoice Kenya, Judy Kibinge, the founder of Docubox, Dr. Njoki Ngumi from Heva Fund, Harsita Waters from the Alliance Francaise de Nairobi, Katie Simmonds from Canon Miraisha Program, Jim Bishop of Blue Sky Films amongst others.
The Chief Guest at the virtual launch, Prof. Joshua Bagaka’s, who is the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs, Research and Innovation at KCAU, noted that it’s time to review what is defined as research in creative circles since creative products such as film and theatre actually go through the research process before being produced, in a process that generates new knowledge, which is the core function of research. He lauded the department’s work and encouraged them to explore more cross-sectional opportunities for research. Prof. John Mugubi from Kenyatta University offered insights into the digital shift in arts education as students have to embrace new approaches and use resources such as smartphones for their practical work, in what is a shift from conventional learning. Other guests included Dr. Zippy Okoth from Kenyatta University, Chris Machin from the US Embassy and Kevin Kimani from the Kenya International Theatre Festival, who all spoke on the need to re-invent artistic practices and be bold enough to embrace digital platforms and devices in the production and consumption of art.